My Boston Terrier lost use of back legs, then recovered. Why?

Poor guy. I would be most worried about a vertebral disc issue with that description. It wouldn't show up on x-rays, only an MRI or other advanced imaging study. If it is related to a disc, quick aggressive treatment will give him the best chance of recovery. Since he doesn't have pain perception, this is an emergency and he should go to a neurologist immediately.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Boris. Given his breed and your description of not being able to use his rear limbs, I am concerned that he has a condition known as IVDD (intervertebral disc disease). The disc sitting between each vertebra can bulge placing pressure on the spinal cord. In worst cases, this can cause weakness or paralysis in one or more legs. When the hind limbs are affected some dogs will have difficulty going to the bathroom as well. He will need prompt treatment to help him regain function of his legs. Rarely a dog will require back surgery. Of course, something else could be wrong which is why he will need to be seen again. I hope this information helps you and Boris.

If Olive is having a problem with both back legs, I would suspect she has an issue with her back or hips. Rest her tonight. No running, jumping, or playing. Take her out to potty on a leash, and bring her right back in when she's done. First thing in the morning, take her into her vet. Do not give her any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. The vet can prescribe safe pain medications for her. I hope this helps.

I am concerned about a possible trauma or even ruptured disc in his back. Is there any way he could of had trauma or an injury to his back. Also infection like meningitis can cause neurological changes. I know you took him to a vet but he most like needs x-rays and possibly a ct/MRI to really look for broken bones and an injured spinal cord. I hope robin approves quickly

Without seeing Browny or any diagnostic images that may have been obtained I really can't speak about the accuracy of your vet's diagnosis. There certainly are spinal issues that can result in an inability to ambulate well in the hind end. Some of these can be traumatic, infectious, or congenital in origin. If there is a spinal problem and you want to obtain a permanent fix, the best thing to do would be to speak with a specialist. Specialty facilities have the ability to perform advanced imaging such as MRIs and CT Scans to identify the exact spot where the spinal issue resides. In the event of a bony spinal issue (versus a disk issue), identifying the problem can be done with basic x-rays. Depending on what the problem is the treatment to fix it will vary considerably, from medical therapy and rest, to a surgical procedure with significant recovery time. Hope this helps.

Spinal cord infarct and slipped disc (intervertebral disc extrusion) may be most likely differentials considering the description of the signs you provided. This clinical status require and immediate check up and neurological and physical examination. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

I would be worried about Spike. Things that come to mind are a disc that has ruptured into the spinal canal, a fibers clot, a blood clot, a tumor or somehow acquiring an injury. I would recommend to take him into the veterinarian's asap to get him checked out. The doctor may want to do an x-ray or may recommend referral to a neurologist based on what they find. Best of luck with Spike!